Question

7. The nurse is inserting a small-bore nasoenteric tube before starting enteral feedings. Place the following steps in order to perform this procedure. 1. Place patient in high-Fowler's position. 2. Have patient flex head toward chest. 3. Assess patient's gag reflex. 4. Determine length of the tube to be inserted. 5. Obtain radiological confirmation of tube placement. 6. Check pH of gastric aspirate for verifying placement. 7. Identify patient with two identifiers.

Answer 1

To perform the procedure of inserting a small-bore nasoenteric tube before starting enteral feedings, the following steps should be taken in order:

1. Identify the patient with two identifiers.

2. Place the patient in high-Fowler's position.

3. Assess the patient's gag reflex.

4. Determine the length of the tube to be inserted.

5. Have the patient flex their head toward the chest.

6. Check the pH of gastric aspirate to verify proper tube placement.

7. Obtain radiological confirmation of tube placement.

Following these steps ensures the safety and effectiveness of the nasoenteric tube insertion procedure. Identifying the patient with two identifiers helps prevent errors and ensures that the procedure is performed on the correct individual. Placing the patient in a high-Fowler's position facilitates optimal access and visualization during the procedure. Assessing the gag reflex helps determine the patient's ability to tolerate the insertion. Determining the appropriate length of the tube ensures that it reaches the intended location. Having the patient flex their head toward the chest facilitates the passage of the tube. Checking the pH of gastric aspirate confirms proper placement in the stomach. Finally, obtaining radiological confirmation provides additional confirmation of the tube's location within the gastrointestinal tract.